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How Long Does a Three Mile Hike Take?

How Long Does a Three Mile Hike Take?

For the vast majority of us planning a hike, the most likely question that will be asked is how long will the hike take and, approximately, how many miles will we be hiking per hour and per day.  And whether you’re a novice or an expert hiker, knowing and being able to estimate how long a hike will take will better help you to plan and estimate your route and the plan for the day.

And if you are planning on hiking for three miles, you may be wondering, just how long does a three-mile hike take?  Below, we are going to review how long you should plan to hike for three miles and different variables and conditions that may affect that average time.

However, do note, that the figures and times we discuss are just estimates.  It can be difficult to fully estimate the time and length any hike will take due to different variables, conditions, fitness levels, bag weights, elevation, whether you are hiking with kids and pets, and so on.  However, having a baseline estimate can be helpful and can better help you to plan your next three-mile hike more efficiently.

How Long Does a Three Mile Hike Take?

Quick Answer

If you’re looking for a quick answer to just how long a three-mile hike will take to complete, then you should plan for approximately one full hour to complete the hike.  Although this is just an estimate, it is one that has been carefully studied and researched across thousands of hikers.

This research has been dubbed as the Naismith Rule.  We will discuss the Naismith Rule in more detail below, but to get a quick answer, you should reserve approximately one hour to complete a three-mile hike.

Different Variables Which Affect Hiking Speed

Any seasoned hiker will be able to tell you that the average speed a hiker can complete in an hour can differ widely and is highly dependent on the variables within the hike, the terrain, and the individual hiker.  And while some of these variables are in your control, others are not.

If you are planning your next hike, then the variables you can control are mainly your own fitness levels and the contents of your bag.  However, even the most able-bodied individuals can be weathered and fatigued from a grueling hike, leading them to average less distance over a given hike per hour.

Similarly, when it comes to the contents of one’s bag and hiking backpack, although you can control additional weight and items, longer hikes may require more clothes, food, water, and accessories, all of which add significant poundage and weight to the bag.

And while you may be able to control some aspects of a hike, the very nature of hiking and camping is in the unknown and great outdoors.  And within those unknowns, comes variables which are, ultimately, out of your control.  This can include the weather, the terrain, the altitude, and whether you are hiking during the day or at night.

All that is to say, that while estimate are useful, they should remain just that, estimates.  And due to the unknown and multiple variables which can impact a hike, you should never be discouraged if you are unable to maintain an estimate.  Simply put, the variables are simply too great to be able to set as an expectation.

How Long Does a Three Mile Hike Take?

What is Naismith’s Rule?

When it comes to averaging and estimating the time to complete a hike, most professional and avid hikers will base their times on Naismith’s Rule.  A simple rule of thumb devised by William W. Naismith, a Scottish mountaineer in 1892, the rule states that a hiker should allow for one hour for ever 3 miles (5 kilometers) forward, with an additional hour for every 2,000 feet (600 meters) of ascent.

However, although Naismith’s Rule is a good barometer, it takes into account a few basic assumptions.  Firstly, that the hiker is of reasonable fitness.  Secondly, that the terrain is typical and does not veer off the trail, and thirdly, that the hike is completed under normal conditions. 

Naismith’s Rule, however, does not take into account delays, extended breaks for rest and sightseeing, or for issues with navigation.  Due to these missed variables, the rule is generally considered a rule of thumb and not an exact science.

Understanding How Long a Hike Can Take

While Naismith’s Rule is useful, there are additional considerations that should be made before embarking on your next hike.  Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, there really is no average speed or pace on a hike.  Each hiker is different and will be able to complete a three-mile hike in different times.

Secondly, the purpose of hiking is not just in completing the hike but enjoying the hike.  This means that while it is admirable to be able to complete a hike in a shorter amount of time, hiking is not meant to be done competitively and should be utilized as a means to escape from the everyday and to get back to nature.

And lastly, you should begin every hike with the mentality of enjoying the hike.  If you are competing on time or attempting to reach a certain point within a certain timeframe, you may miss out on what the hike has to offer.  Rather, take your time and enjoy the scenery, the beauty of the nature around you, and the environment with your family, friends, and hiking buddies.

How Long Does a Three Mile Hike Take?

How Many Calories Do You Burn Hiking Three Miles?

Another question that we often get is just how many calories do you burn completing a three-mile hike.  Again, it can be difficult to provide a clear-cut answer as there are many variables which go into the number of calories burnt for any one individual.

However, on average, a person weighing 180-pounds should expect to burn 100 calories per mile, or 300 calories for aa three-mile hike.  A person weighing 120-pounds should expect to burn 65 calories for every mile on a hike, or 195 total calories in a three-mile hike.

How Long Does a Three Mile Hike Take?

General Hiking Considerations

Lastly, before jetting off to your next hike, there are a few considerations to make.  These considerations will not only help you to have a safer hiking experience but will also make the experience more fun and enjoyable for all.

Firstly, be sure to choose a hiking location that you are excited about.  Not only will the hike be easier, but you will also gain more from the hike when you set off to a hiking location that you are excited about.

Secondly, be sure to pack a sufficient amount of necessities with you.   Not only should you bring a sufficient amount of food and water, but you should also pack additional clothes, a first aid kit, and toiletries to help you remain comfortable.  In addition, if you will be relying on your phone for GPS navigation, be sure to bring a portable phone charger to ensure your phone is fully powered throughout your trip.

And lastly, be sure to set out on your next hike with a trusted, well-prepared group of friends and family.  Doing so will not only make the trip more enjoyable, but you will be able to create long-lasting and life-long memories which you can all remember and reminisce on.